At NIFS, it is well understood that maintaining fire suppression systems is not only a legal requirement but also a method that helps save lives. In this step-by-step tutorial, you’ll learn why it is important to maintain these systems, what kinds of systems exist, how to maintain them properly, and how maintenance keeps your premises compliant with fire regulations. You will be aware of the role and significance of the fire suppression system maintenance till the end of this guide, but you will also learn how NIFS can provide you with the tools to become successful in the field of fire safety management.
Types of fire suppression systems:
There are several varieties of fire suppression systems, and each is used to deal with a certain type of fire and location. Understanding the differences between these systems is vital to their maintenance and overall effectiveness:
– Water-based systems (Sprinklers)
The most popular type of fire suppression system is water-based fire protection, which involves the use of water to fight fire. These systems are used in commercial buildings an residential complex. It is therefore important for sprinkler heads, valves, as well as the pipelines to undergo a test exercise so that blockages that might hinder their functionality should not be apparent.
– Gas-based Systems
They work by either displacing oxygen, which is required for combustion or by chemically interfering with the flames. Gas-based systems are most frequently applied in data centers, server rooms, and zones where the utilization of water will cause even greater harm than fire. Maintenance should involve inspection of the gas, confirming there are no ruptures in the system and confirming that the enclosed room’s integrity is maintained when deployed.
– Foam Systems
A type of extinguishing system widely applied in areas containing flammable liquids include airports, chemical plants, fuel storage, and so on. They operate by producing a foam layer, which excludes one of the main requirements of fire oxygen. Additional testing that forms part of routine maintenance includes evaluating foam concentrate level, monitoring the right proportion of foam and water, and the discharge systems.
Key Maintenance Practices
Fire suppression systems are not something that you just maintain once and you are done, they are something that needs to be maintained constantly. Here are some key practices that should be incorporated:
- Regular Inspections and Testing
Fixtures & Fittings, Pipes & Hoses, Structural & Cladding, and Hygiene, Cleaning & Disinfection
Periodical check-ups are important because they help a coach find any problems that might likely occur in the future. Fire suppression systems should be checked regularly, especially at intervals recommended by the manufacturer or by the laws of the region. This involves conductance assessment tests on valves, sensors that are installed on the system’s alarm and control panels.
- Importance of Documentation
Good record-keeping is mandatory in the inspection, testing, and maintenance activities as well. It also assists the auditing process and, most importantly, safeguards a record of compliance with the set fire safety measures. In the event that an audit or an insurance claim has been done, these records can be of immense value should the system’s maintenance records be wanted.
- Common Maintenance Tasks
Maintenance can entail cleaning sprinkler heads, inspecting pressure levels, replacing worn down parts, and readjusting the sensors. Situations that may warrant an emergency test may be halted due to malfunctions attributed to lack of regular maintenance schedules.
Compliance with Fire Safety Regulations
Fire safety regulation is the law, and maintenance of the fire suppression system is a factor in ensuring compliance. Key regulations include:
NFPA Standards: The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides specific guidelines on techniques of installing, inspecting, testing, and maintaining fire suppression systems. This helps in following NFPA standards that are compulsory in continuation, reducing liability while maintaining the system’s efficiency.
Local Codes: Some of the specific additional rules that the municipalities have in their fire safety code may be to demand more frequent inspections
or extra testing. And so, it is of paramount importance to keep abreast of local laws with a view to preventing receipt of fines besides asserting the safety of building occupants.
Penalties for Non-compliance
Neglecting your fire suppression systems can cause harm such as fines, higher insurance costs, and most importantly, system failure in the event of a fire. It also results in legal action if negligence is established in the event of fire disasters based on the legal provisions.
Choosing the Right Service Provider
Fire suppression systems need professional attention when being maintained; therefore, you should hire a competent service provider. Here are a few key considerations:
What you should consider when choosing a maintenance service
The good companies should have experience in handling fire protection, their technicians should be accredited, and they should have adequate knowledge about both regional and global fire standards. Inspection entities should provide detailed reports after every inspection, and there should be no hiding of the condition of your system.
Advantages of professional inspection
Hire professional service providers for your commercial buildings because you are assured of more than simple undertaking of inspections; you benefit from experienced persons as well as sophisticated equipment for early detection of underlying problems. This approach, however, does not only guarantee compliance of the suppression system but also results in the optimization of the system’s lifespan, hence cutting costs in the future.
Conclusion
Fire suppression systems need frequent inspection or checkups to ensure they are in working condition, meet the regulation, and promote safety. Other than distinguishing the various kinds of systems, adhering to the appropriate maintenance procedures and selecting the correct service provider, you will be confident that your fire suppression system is in its right state; hence, protection is just around the corner if need be.
At the National Institute of Fire and Safety (NIFS), our philosophy is to develop human resources capable of undertaking and managing fire safety. If you want to learn more about suppression systems, fire safety programs, or other fire protection aspects, then our fire and safety course list may be of interest. By studying with NIFS, you will be armed and ready to contribute and make a difference in making the world a safer place. Don’t miss your chance to become an expert in fire safety management right now and enroll and start your way to success!